Cory Davis, PA-C | Robert Hoy, PA-C

Program Description

This session will equip PAs with the skills to confidently diagnose and manage Overactive Bladder (OAB). Moving beyond the traditional step-therapy model, we’ll use case studies to explore a range of patient-centered treatment options designed to improve quality of life. All approaches will be evidence-based and guided by the most recent AUA/SUFU guidelines.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this session, participants will be able to: Formulate an accurate diagnosis of idiopathic OAB by performing a guideline-directed initial evaluation and differentiating it from key comorbid conditions like GSM and BPH. Apply a shared decision-making model to select initial OAB management strategies, incorporating behavioral, non-invasive, and pharmacologic options based on patient preference and values. Counsel patients on the risks and benefits of OAB medications, including the potential for cognitive impairment associated with antimuscarinics, as per the 2024 guidelines. Identify patients who are appropriate candidates for minimally invasive procedures or specialist referral based on treatment response and patient goals. Integrate a systems-based practice approach to OAB care by coordinating with specialists and managing comorbid conditions that impact bladder health. 

Ashlyn Smith, MMS, PA-C, DFAAPA

Program Description

A fragility fracture occurs every three seconds worldwide. However, appropriate identification and treatment of osteoporosis post-fracture rarely occurs with approximately 80% of individuals falling into this gap of care following a fragility fracture. Barriers and misconceptions exist in caring for this “silent” condition that carries high morbidity and mortality rates. This program will aide the clinician in navigating through the variety of guidelines and essential clinical pearls in order to appropriately identify at-risk individuals, educate patients on lifestyle interventions, and select the optimal agent based on individualized risk assessment and shared medical decision-making to include antiresorptive and anabolic agents, drug holidays, and transitioning between agents.

Learning Objectives

1. Delineate osteoporosis screening guidelines and diagnostic criteria. 2. Apply risk stratification techniques to categorize high versus very high risk of fracture. 3. Develop a comprehensive osteoporosis treatment plan to include lifestyle, nutritional, fall prevention, and pharmacologic interventions. 4. Navigate real-world case-based discussions to individualize osteoporosis care for a diverse patient population

 Ashlyn Smith, MMS, PA-C, DFAAPA

Program Description

Thyroid disorders are frequently encountered in both primary care and specialty settings, yet even experienced clinicians can fall into familiar traps. In this highly interactive session, participants will step into the role of the treating provider and guide patient care through a series of "choose your own adventure" clinical pathways. At key decision points, learners will vote on diagnostic and management strategies, with each choice leading to a different outcome--some of which will be successful while others reveal common mistakes. Voting can be done by ARS or show of hands, whichever is allowed by the venue's technology. Faculty will highlight evidence-based rationale behind each turn, demonstrating how small missteps can cascade into larger clinical challenges.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify common errors in thyroid disease diagnosis and management. 2. Apply guideline-directed strategies to optimize patient outcomes and reduce medical errors. 3. Recognize the downstream impact of clinical decisions through real-world case scenarios. 4. Gain real-time practice navigating complex clinical decision-making pathways.

Randy Danielsen, PhD, PA-C Emeritus

Program Description

This engaging lecture explores the rich history and development of the physician assistant profession through the innovative PAHx Values Recognition and Understanding program. Participants will discover how understanding our professional legacy strengthens current practice and guides future development.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to: 1. Analyze the historical development of the physician assistant profession using the PAHx Values Recognition and Understanding framework 2. Evaluate the critical importance of documenting and preserving PA professional history for future generations 3. Assess PAHx's role as the premier repository for PA history and its credibility within healthcare communities 4. Collaborate effectively in collecting, preserving, and sharing PA history through PAHx engagement

Caitlin McQuarie, PA-C

Program Description

Presentation on a comprehensive spinal exam for PAs in all specialties. The goal is to provide details on how to best examine the neck and back across all settings and promote the development of accurate differential diagnoses of spinal pathology.

Learning Objectives

1. List the components of a comprehensive spine exam 2. Describe the techniques of, normal findings, and abnormal findings for each component of the spine exam, including: Inspection Palpation Range of Motion Strength and Sensation Reflexes Gait and Balance Specialized Exams 3. Formulate differential diagnoses based on physical examination findings